Health

SGOT Test – View Price, Preparation, and Procedure

December 12, 2022
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What do you mean by an SGOT Test?

SGOT (serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase) test, also known as the AST (aspartate aminotransferase), is done to check liver impairment and associated problems. The liver is a very important organ in our body, which carries out several tasks. These tasks include producing the bile fluid that helps in digesting. Hepatitis and the use of alcohol or other drugs are some examples of many things that harm the liver. The healthy liver produces the AST enzyme, which has a low blood level. The AST level increases in cases of liver injury. Signs of liver damage include jaundice, a bloated stomach, a stomachache, itchy skin, and dark urine.

Why is the SGOT test conducted?

The physician may perform an SGOT test to identify if there is liver disease or liver damage. When liver cells are harmed, SGOT gets into the bloodstream, raising your blood’s enzyme level.

Several people are known to have illnesses that damage their livers, such as Hepatitis C. They must take the test to determine the health of their liver.

SGOT is present in one’s muscles, brain, and other body parts, including the heart and kidneys. SGOT levels may be higher than usual if these areas are affected. The levels may increase if someone has a heart attack or has recently suffered a muscle injury.

What are the preparation methods involved in this test?

While testing, your doctor will wrap a plastic band around your arm to identify a vein. After using an antiseptic to disinfect the area, a needle will be inserted. The doctor will then collect and store the blood sample in a vial. Usually, this procedure takes a few minutes. After collection, the blood is delivered to the lab for examination.

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A simple process is used for the SGOT test. It does not need any special planning. You can still take a few steps to make the process easy.

Do not take over-the-counter (OTC) medicines two days before your test. Remember to inform your doctor know if you do take them. 

Also, hydrate well the night before your test. It will be easier for the phlebotomist to collect your blood if you stay hydrated. Wear comfortable clothes to make it simple for the phlebotomist to take a blood sample from your forearm. 

What are the uses of this test?

Your doctor will recommend the best course of medication and therapy based on your test findings and health. Extremely high levels of SGOT point to diseases that severely destroy the liver. These circumstances include:

  • Significant liver damage, likely through toxins, including overdose of OTC drugs like acetaminophen.
  • The collapse of the circulatory system.

Male and female standard units are 10 to 40 units/liter for males and 9 to 32 units/liter for females. 

Usually, the test results are ready within a few days.

What Are the Risks of the SGOT Test?

The SGOT test is safe and quick as it is a blood test. While the risks are minimal, many patients may experience the following:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection in the area
  • Pain where the needle is inserted
  • Dizziness

Why Is This Test Advisable?

Suppose you show any of the following symptoms of liver disease. The SGOT test cost is usually reasonable. However, you should choose a reliable diagnostic center. In that case, your doctor may recommend this test:

  • Jaundice, also known as yellow skin or eyes
  • Tiredness
  • Weakness
  • Bloated abdomen, stomachache
  • Reduced appetite
  • Skin itching
  • Urine with a deep color
  • Clay-colored stool
  • Inflamed ankles and legs 
  • Bruises
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Other reasons for this test include the following:

  • If you’ve been exposed to the hepatitis virus.
  • Have a history of liver illness in your family.
  • You are overweight.
  • You have diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

How can one increase their SGOT levels?

Increase the intake of vitamin D. Vitamin D lowers SGPT levels and minimizes liver damage. Oranges, soy milk, mushrooms, apples, eggs, tofu, cod liver oil, dairy products, and green vegetables also help.

What to predict after the SGOT Test is done?

Your physician can ask for a new test if your SGOT test results are unclear. The doctor may also ask you to take the following tests:

  • Coagulation panel test – This evaluates the capacity of blood to clot and checks the performance of extra proteins made in the liver.
  • Bilirubin test– Bilirubin is a chemical and by-product of the liver’s regular oxidation of red blood cells. 
  • Glucose tests– Unusual low glucose levels are a sign that shows the liver is not working properly.
  • Platelet count testing – To check the platelet count. If it is low, it can be a sign of liver illness.

These blood tests are completed in a full blood panel test (CBP). Your doctor can ask you to go for more tests like thyroid test. Tests, such as a liver ultrasound, are conducted to identify the issue with other organs or muscles.